Navigating Trade Policy Challenges: The Story of Rest of the Nest on Etsy
In the midst of personal tragedy, Kellie Abernethy found solace in creating a necklace to commemorate the loss of her unborn child. This led her to start a jewelry business called Rest of the Nest on Etsy, a platform where predominantly women-owned small businesses thrive. However, Abernethy now faces challenges due to President Trump's trade policies, which have increased tariffs on imported goods, affecting her ability to source materials from China.
The imposition of tariffs has put Abernethy in a difficult position, as she grapples with the decision of whether to raise prices, risking losing customers, or discontinue her bestselling necklace. Women small business owners like Abernethy already face obstacles in accessing capital and loans, with many relying on debt or help from family and friends to finance their businesses.
The uncertainty surrounding trade policies and tariffs has created anxiety among Etsy sellers, particularly women who run small businesses from their homes. The recent changes in tariffs have led to logistical challenges, increased prices, and concerns about delays in shipping and customs. Some sellers are even considering halting sales to the U.S. altogether to avoid the risks associated with the new tariffs.
The impact of these policy changes extends beyond individual sellers to the market of handmade goods that women dominate. Consumers may be unwilling to pay higher prices for handmade products, leading sellers to choose between absorbing costs or losing customers to cheaper alternatives. This dilemma undermines the sector of women-owned businesses and creatives, posing a threat to their livelihoods and creative pursuits.